Wind and cold cause a felt temperature of -22 degrees - Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania shivers through week's harshest cold snap

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has faced its harshest cold snap of the week, with temperatures plunging across eastern Vorpommern. Overnight lows reached minus 14°C (7°F), while wind chill made it feel as bitter as minus 22°C (–8°F) in the early hours. The freeze has disrupted daily life, forcing changes to transport and outdoor work.

Monday marked the coldest day of this winter so far in the region. The chill was sharpest in the morning, with wind making conditions feel closer to minus 20°C (–4°F) throughout the day. Despite the severity, these temperatures remain far from historic extremes—unlike 2012, when Ueckermünde recorded a low of minus 28.7°C (–19.7°F).

The freeze has caused practical problems. An icebreaker serving Hiddensee is now operating only for emergencies, limiting travel to the island. Workers exposed to the cold have faced delays and safety concerns.

Relief is on the way, though. Forecasters predict a gradual warming trend over the coming days. By next weekend, temperatures may rise to around freezing or slightly above, easing the deep chill.

The cold spell has brought the region's lowest temperatures of the season but has not broken any records. Transport and outdoor activities have been affected, with emergency-only services in place for some routes. As the week progresses, a slow thaw is expected to bring milder conditions.